U.S. News & World Report has again ranked Montana State University in the top tier of the nation's best universities.

The publication noted that MSU, which tied for 189th, is home to many unique research facilities as well as the world-class Museum of the Rockies.

"This ranking confirms that MSU holds a place among the nation's best universities," said MSU President Waded Cruzado. "As a land-grant university, MSU focuses on teaching and learning, research and creative projects, and outreach and service. We know that this mission continues to have a positive impact on individuals across the state of Montana and beyond."

Rankings are based on several key measures of quality, including academic reputation, peer assessment, graduation and retention rates, student/faculty ratios and average alumni giving, according to the publication.

With an enrollment of more than 14,000 students, MSU offers more than 125 major options within its colleges and programs. MSU is also designated as one of 108 universities--out of 4,600 institutions--with very high research activity by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.

Highlights of the U.S. News & World Report rankings will be published in the September 2012 issue of the publication.